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Get a Korean Driver's License in Korea

Exchange your foreign license for a Korean one, or take a Korean driving test. Exchange eligibility depends on your home country.

Medium⏱ 1 day to 2 weeks

πŸ“‹ What You Need

  • β€’Original foreign driver's license
  • β€’Official translation
  • β€’Passport and ARC
  • β€’Recent photo (3.5Γ—4.5cm)
  • β€’Application fee: β‚©8,500–₩16,000

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Check exchange eligibility

Citizens of countries with bilateral agreements (US, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, Japan, etc.) can exchange without a driving test.

  • πŸ’‘Full list at koroad.or.kr
2

Get your license officially translated

Have your foreign license translated at the Korean Automobile Association (ν•œκ΅­μžλ™μ°¨ν΄λŸ½, 02-3558-4100) or your embassy.

3

Visit a Driver's License Test Center

Go to your nearest μš΄μ „λ©΄ν—ˆμ‹œν—˜μž₯ with all documents. Exchange licenses or register for a driving test.

4

Complete any required tests

Exchange-eligible countries: no test needed. Others: written test only or full practical test.

5

Receive your Korean license

Issued same day or within 1–2 business days.

πŸ’‘ Insider Tips

  • β†’International Driving Permit (IDP) allows driving in Korea for up to 1 year
  • β†’Exchange-eligible countries skip written and practical tests entirely
  • β†’You can drive with IDP while waiting for your ARC
  • β†’Korea drives on the right side of the road
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